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Ubuntu releases open hardware VGA Switch

The Ubuntu VGA Switch
Source: Canonical

As part of his keynote at the Ubuntu Developer Summit (UDS), Canonical founder Mark Shuttleworth has announced the Ubuntu project's first open hardware device. The Canonical created VGA Switch (VGAS-01) allows the disconnection of a VGA display from a system with the push of a button.

The device is designed to help software testers by simulating hotplugging of VGA connectors and preventing wear and tear on the test hardware. It also saves the developers from having to connect and disconnect cables all day. Additionally, the switch can be used for testing VGA hotplugging in an automated fashion by having the power supply of the VGA Switch turned on and off by software.

The CAD files for the board design and all other specifications needed to build the device are available under the Apache 2.0 Licence from the Ubuntu Open Hardware Git repository. This includes a case design that can be printed using a 3D printer. The Ubuntu wiki page for the device does point out that the initial revision includes a fault with the design that requires users to insulate a small part of the board with masking tape to prevent it from shorting out. Instructions on how to assemble the VGA Switch can also be accessed on the same wiki page.